Press Releases

Press Releases

Oct132011

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Charlie Dent (PA-15) issued the following statement after voting for three trade agreements that will support domestic job growth, as well as legislation to provide retraining assistance for American workers whose jobs may be displaced due to trade.

“The passage of bilateral trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea will support needed job growth by increasing export opportunities for American small businesses, farmers and manufacturers. These pacts, which were developed during the administration of President George W. Bush and completed under President Barack Obama, will help accelerate our economic recovery by removing trade barriers and opening access to rapidly developing economies in Central and South America, as well as Asia.

“Receiving strong bipartisan support in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, the passage of these agreements also illustrates Washington is capable of overcoming partisan divides and implementing policies that will help get Americans back to work.

“I commend the administration of President George W. Bush for developing responsible pacts and President Barack Obama for his dedication to completing the long-pending agreements. I also applaud Speaker of the House John Boehner for following through on his commitment to advance these important trade agreements in chorus with the reauthorization of the Trade Adjustment Assistance program.

“Beyond economic growth, the completion of bilateral agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea will also promote American national security interests by strengthening our nation’s relationships with allies on the doorstep of China, North Korea and Venezuela. “